IN PREVIOUS YEARS, Xerox has submitted solid-ink models for our MFP reviews. The little crayonlike blocks produce some of the best color in the industry, but they can slow print times, especially if the system is just warming up for the day. However, this year, Xerox sent the 6180MFP/N to prove that it can compete with the other toner models.

In this report

The GCN Lab tested tests eight multifunction printers suitable for small, midsize and, in at least one case, even large workgroups.

Its strengths were evident right away, as the MFP was ready to go a few seconds after we put it together rather than needing half an hour to get up-to-speed. The 6180MFP/N can scan documents rather quickly. We recorded an average speed of 18 pages per minute for text documents.

Printing was just as quick. The device crunched out a 30-page text document in 1 minute, 3 seconds and our graphicsheavy test in 1 minute, 35 seconds. Those times were close to the top ones in our review.

The 6180MFP/N seemed to calibrate itself for 20 to 30 seconds if we let it sit for a while between tests, but it didn’t do that if the unit was in constant use.

It has a 950-sheet paper capacity, which, combined with its speed, makes it suitable for even the larger end of a midsize workgroup.

Twenty or even 30 people could share this MFP comfortably as long as their projects were not too print-intensive.

The solid-ink MFP Xerox sent last year had top color quality but only good text quality. In comparison, the 6180MFP/N was excellent in both areas. There are slightly better MFPs in terms of accuracy in color or text, but the 6180MFP/N is the only one that does a top job in both areas.

The 6180MFP uses a special kind of toner called high-gloss emulsion aggregation.

Although not a true photo printer, it prints photographs that shine, even on plain office paper. A presentation with business graphics pops off the page when printed on the 6180MFP/N. It even printed text on graphics with no flaws. It can also be set to send notices to users when their print, scan or fax jobs are complete. So without even getting up, users will know if their faxes went through. And with the included Centreware Web printer management software, administrators can clone multiple configurations of Xerox MFPs organizationwide, which makes setup a breeze.

The Xerox Phaser 6180MFP/N is a great machine, and its usability features make all its tools easily accessible to users. It earns a Reviewer’s Choice designation for this review.